TICKETS are still available for a variety concert at Peebles High School this Friday.

As we reported last week, the school is banging the hammer down on poverty – promising that all students will have the same opportunities to take part in extra-curricular activities, no matter what their household income.

The school will open its doors at 6.30pm to raise funds for its ‘Opportunity Pot’.

The grand auction and musical evening will include the school’s renowned ceilidh and jazz bands and up and coming Young Futures Orchestra.

Compered by Scott Noble and the auctioneer team of Campbell Wilson and Keith Belleville, it promises to be a highly entertaining evening.

A spokesperson from the Parent Council told us: “Many students in Peebles High have families struggling to make ends meet.

“Therefore the thought of paying for excursions and trips are just a dream for many.

“These trips build confidence in young people, making lasting friendships and access to those trips is core to the the school’s values. For anyone who remembers their High School days you will recall just how important it is to be accepted and how rejection feels.

“Some of these trips support academic attainment too and we want to ensure that education is fair for everyone in our community with tight budgets these days. Our grateful thanks to our generous parents,staff and our community for their support and donations.

“This will be an amazing night of entertainment, games, food and bar plus fabulous auction lots for Christmas and birthday gifts and bargains galore some of which money cannot buy.”

Tickets are £5 and available on first come first served basis on the door or at the school and Whities bookshop.

Raffle tickets are on sale and will be available at the event, where the draw will be made to reveal the £500 winner. There will be many other prizes too.

Headteacher Campbell Wilson added: “Since returning to work after my illness and as part of our school values, I wanted more than ever for all students enjoy the opportunities on offer here at Peebles High. There is an opportunity to bid on some incredible offers donated by our community, parents and staff.

“We extend a warm welcome to bring our whole community together by joining us at the school on October 4.”